Judge grants big break to convicted robber

ADRIAN, Mich. (AP) — A man who has served just a quarter of a 45-year prison sentence soon will be enjoying freedom, thanks to a generous Lenawee County judge.

Judge Timothy Pickard says his opinion about Ian Anderson has changed. Twelve years ago, when Anderson was 18, he was sentenced to a minimum of 45 years in prison for armed robbery.

A psychologist who once labeled Anderson a dangerous man now has a different opinion. The Corrections Department also believes Anderson can safely return to society.

The Daily Telegram in Adrian (http://bit.ly/SOpzBo) reports that Anderson soon will get a parole hearing, the first step to freedom. He appeared in court Friday and apologized for his crime. The Corrections Department says Anderson has helped inmates learn to read and write.